Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on nation-states to build a just and equitable global artificial intelligence governance system, adding that AI should drive global shared prosperity and common security.

He made the appeal in a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 2026 World AI Conference in Shanghai, China, on Friday, emphasising a people-centred approach.

“In China’s view, all countries should take a people-centred approach and develop AI for the positive and for good.

“We should ensure that AI is an important driver for shared prosperity and common security. We should join hands to build a just and equitable system for global AI governance,” he said.

The president highlighted the historic nature of the current technological revolution, comparing AI’s transformative power to the invention of steam engines, electricity, and the internet.

He raised critical questions facing humanity, including how to handle thinking machines, ensure algorithmic security, manage ethical risks, and bridge the widening digital divide.

He proposed adherence to openness and win-win cooperation to boost innovation-driven development across traditional and emerging industries.

He also stressed the need for heightened risk awareness and advocated for robust legal frameworks and monitoring systems to ensure AI remains secure and controllable.

The Chinese president firmly opposed overstretching the concept of national security in the AI sector, warning against prioritising one nation’s security over others’.

He further called for inclusiveness and mutual learning, noting that AI must align with humanity’s common values without eroding cultural diversity or civilisational uniqueness.

He advocated solidarity and true multilateralism under the United Nations to form a consensus-based global governance framework that benefits humanity.

He underscored China’s support for the Global South, aiming to bridge the AI divide and prevent historical injustices through extensive international cooperation.

The president disclosed that at the start of China’s 15th five-year plan, China’s core smart economy industries were valued at over RMB 1 trillion yuan.

He celebrated the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) in Shanghai, calling it an international symphony rather than a solo performance.

To support global capacity building, he announced that China pledged 5,000 AI training opportunities for developing countries over the next five years.

Furthermore, he said China would develop regional AI application cooperation centres and deploy its MAZU meteorological warning system to protect homes in 30 countries.

The Chinese president reaffirmed China’s readiness to work openly with all parties, guiding AI with human wisdom to secure a brighter future for humanity.

“China is ready to be more open, take more practical actions, and assume a more visionary perspective.

“We are ready to work with all parties to seize the opportunities of AI development and meet the challenges, and join hands to create a brighter future for humanity,” he added.

(NAN)